FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

A founding member of Dave Matthews Band and truly one of the best-known drummers in the world, Carter Beauford brought his immense talent to Vic Firth in search of the perfect pair. Creating a versatile stick was an absolute must for this man who is known for his ability to adapt to a variety of genres. Together, Carter and Vic have surely done that!

Carter’s new signature stick combines a 5B shaft with an extended taper and elongated oval wood tip. The result is a design that provides superior response, sound and versatility. For a distinctive look and feel, the butt end of the stick is dressed in our anti-slip Vic Grip coating in Carter’s signature yellow. This specially formulated coating is extremely durable and an ideal choice for players like Carter who prefer an enhanced grip on their drumsticks.

“When you work as much as we do, there isn’t a lot of time to try out new gear,” states Beauford. “You get kind of locked into a routine. And that’s sometimes unfortunate, because there could be something out there that’s better. That was the case with me and Vic Firth! When a friend of mine recently put some Vic Sticks in my hands, I could not believe the difference. The stick not only felt perfectly straight and balanced, but I could also hear the difference immediately. I found I didn’t have to work so hard because the stick was working for me. It was then I realized that I had found the right tool for the job.” -Carter Beauford

Joe Testa, Director of Artist Relations for Vic Firth Company, has known Carter personally and professionally for many years. “To be able to work with him is a complete honor for me. Having had the great fortune of watching him many times, I am still always astonished at what a marvelous player he is. Knowing that he will be moving forward playing our sticks just makes it that much better. To have yet another artist of this caliber choose Vic Firth attests to the quality of our products and our commitment to the musicians who use them.”

Vic concludes, “I have admired Carter for his terrific drumming style for many years. With the rare ability to inject such a unique playing sensibility, he flourishes as an inspiration to us all! It is no wonder that he has garnered countless awards including Rolling Stone magazine’s recognition as one of the top 10 drummers of all time! I am so delighted to have Carter as part of the Vic Firth family!”

The thrills and chills I get from going to Dave Matthews Band concerts and the moment that Carter comes out picks up sticks, hits the bass drum that I feel right in my chest to get the crowd ready for a big night, is unlike any other experience in the world. I have been to 94 shows in my DMB touring career and I have had nothing but good experience. Being a verteran of the tour circuit, I can safely say, that I don’t really even watch Dave anymore. I always set my eyes on the man, the myth, the legend…Mr. Carter Beauford. The grandiose drum kit, the playfulness between him and the other band members, and the way he conducts the entire show is unparalleled by any other drummer in history. I can safely say that he is my favorite musician. I saw him live with Victor Wooten over a decade ago and it was the pinnacle of my live show experiences.

My favorite Carter moment. June 13th 2009, Saratoga Performing Arts Center. 10th row center. In complete awe. In the last song of the set, his outro to Two Step was one of the greatest performances I have ever seen. I have seen Two Step performed live, at least 50 times, and this was far and away the greatest display of skill I have seen him have.

Congrats to Vic Firth & Co., you snagged yourself the biggest name in drumming. Can’t wait to see Mr. Beauford again this summer. I am sure it will be another amazing performance.

DMB has always been in the background of my life as far back as I can remember, sort of like Carter and his drumming were playing the soundtrack of my life. Nothing gives me the chills like watching Carter play…he always smiles and chews bubble gum, even popping bubbles while bangin’ away and making it all look so effortless. I adore him.

Carter is the reason I started drumming and the inspiration for most of my playing. He’s just fascinating to watch. Its tough to pick out a favorite groove of his, but his groove in spaceman is definitely one of my favorites. Picked up the transcription in modern drummer and it is so much fun to play!

Congrats on the new endorsement Carter! I started listening to DMB back in 1995 solely because of the drumming on “What Would You Say?” Carter is an amazing musician and fun to watch– because he’s having so much fun.

Glad he made the move to Vic Firth. Now if DW can snag him up, he’ll be using the best gear out there! (John Good, are you listening?)

I am excited about Carter being with Vic Firth! Should be agreat set of sticks and I will be in line to get some! I’ve enjoyed his wok for many years and his style of drumming is unmatched! He has also been an influence on my style in my new music and performance…so great job Carter, keep up the great drumming!

I can’t help but feel that Beauford is overlooked in mainstream circles as one of the most technically sound and innovative drummers of our time. He is incredibly clean and orchestrates his grooves and fills with a full spectrum of rhythmic and harmonic colors. Since the first time I heard DMB’s “What Would You Say?” I wanted to hear more. Carter quickly worked his way to the top five of my favorite drummers of all time. Congrats on picking up a true gem!